A councillors said she resigned after finding new members views 'incompatible' with her own.

Former Maldon District Council deputy leader, councillor Maddie Thompson resigned earlier this week as member of the Conservative Group representing Tolleshunt D'arcy.

She is now a non-aligned councillor, meaning the independents now have the majority at Maldon District Council by one.

She said: "Having found the divisive attitudes and actions of some of the new intake of members to be incompatible with my own views, I have resigned from the Conservative Group, however I remain a member of the Party and of my Constituency Association.

“For clarity, although I feel great sadness at having to take this action after almost ten years, this was my choice; I was not asked to leave or suspended, nor was it suggested that either might occur.”

Last month, Councillor Thompson quit as Deputy Leader following Adrian Fluker who stepped down as leader.

Councillors Richards Dewick and Michael Helm also left the conservative group last month.

Councillor Bob Boyce also stood down as Maldon District Council chairman after his two-year-term was due to come to an end.

Veteran councillor Bryan Harker also resigned from the council completely after 25 years in office.